The Minds Behind the Machines Technology & Innovation Awards
The Minds Behind the Machines (MBM) Technology and Innovation Awards recognize leaders advancing the future of manufacturing across ten categories. The program highlights breakthroughs in robotics, automation, AI, advanced technologies, and digital transformation, while also honoring operational achievements that drive productivity and real-world impact on the factory floor. Winners will be announced at the MBM Innovation Exchange Awards Luncheon in April, 2027 at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, South Carolina. Award categories listed below.
Excellence in Intelligent Manufacturing Systems
Recognizes the use of AI & machine learning to drive data-driven decision-making and measurable improvements in performance.
AI/ML integration that drives measurable decision-making and performance gains.
Excellence in Advanced Automation
Honors the integration of robotics and automation to enhance efficiency, safety, and production scalability.
Using robotics and/or automation to improve efficiency, safety, and scalability.
Excellence in Smart Factory Systems
Recognizes the implementation of connected technologies and IIoT to create intelligent, data-driven manufacturing environments.
Success with connected systems and IIoT improving real-time operations and insights.
Excellence in Digital Manufacturing Technologies
Celebrates use of additive manufacturing and digital fabrication to accelerate innovation and production capabilities.
Use of additive manufacturing or digital fabrication to accelerate innovation and production.
Excellence in Digital Twin Innovation
Recognizes use of digital twins, modeling, and simulation to optimize processes and predict performance outcomes.
Digital twin, modeling, or simulation optimizing processes and predicting outcomes.
Excellence in Industrial Cyber Security
Honors organizations that protect manufacturing and operational technology systems through advanced cyber strategies.
Implementation of cybersecurity strategies that protect operational technology and mitigate risk.
Excellence in Workforce Systems Enablement
Celebrates the use of technology to enhance workforce skills, training, and productivity in modern manufacturing environments.
Use of technology to enhance workforce skills, productivity, and training effectiveness.
Excellence in Digital Supply Chain Resilience
Recognizes the use of technology to strengthen supply chain visibility, flexibility, and risk management.
The use of digital tools that strengthen supply chain visibility, flexibility, and risk management.
Excellence in Plant Leadership and Execution
Celebrates leaders who successfully implement technology-driven strategies and drive results on the plant floor.
Leadership in implementing technology-driven strategies to achieve measurable results.
Lifetime Achievement in Manufacturing Innovation
Recognizes an individual whose career-long contributions have advanced technology, workforce development, and operational excellence in manufacturing.